Andropause: A Testosterone Deficiency

testosterone's value

To better understand the dangers of andropause, it is important to understand exactly what testosterone is and what functions it serves in a man's body.

The chemical itself is produced in the testes and adrenal glands and then distributed throughout a man's body.

Internally, it is responsible for building protein, regulating the metabolic system, producing blood cells in bone marrow, assisting in liver functions, and regulating the growth of the prostate gland. All of these functions are extremely important for maintaining a healthy body as we age, and a disproportionate reduction in testosterone can endanger all of them.

For most of us, however, the great benefit of testosterone is the role it plays in our sex lives. It is absolutely essential in producing erections and regulating the male libido.

andropause effects

The strength of the effects of andropause depends on how much testosterone the sufferer is losing and how much of a deficiency he is experiencing.

The first and most devastating impact of andropause is its decimation of the male sex drive. Not only do interest levels drop, but it also becomes increasingly difficult for the male to achieve and maintain an erection. For most men, this should serve as the first sign that they may be suffering from andropause.

Mentally, most sufferers will find themselves going through emotional and behavioral changes. Specifically, they will experience a loss of energy and interest in things that used to spur passion (sports, business, home improvement, etc.).

On a physical level, andropause will result in a loss of muscle mass and an increase in upper body fat — basically, the same symptoms that steroid (a type of super testosterone supplement) users suffer when they stop taking the drug. Also, the chances of contracting osteoporosis and cardiovascular problems increase exponentially, although the latter is still being debated by medical professionals.

are you at risk?

Every male over the age of thirty is a potential candidate for andropause.

Naturally, living an unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity and a poor diet greatly increases your chances of contraction. So those in white-collar positions that require little physical activity must begin to add exercise to their daily regimen to try and stave off the condition.